The Pune Forest Department is relocating 448 turtles back to their natural homes after a successful rehabilitation program
These turtles were kept in captivity for treatment. They were brought to the Transit Treatment Centre in Bavdhan. There, they went through a careful rehabilitation process. Sadly, about 38 turtles didn’t make it due to health issues.
But the good news is that many others are doing well. The department is now ready to release 448 turtles back into the wild. They’ve picked five spots along the Godavari River for this.
The release will happen in phases, and they’re keeping the exact locations secret to protect the turtles. Most will go back to Maharashtra, but some will head to nearby states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Tushar Chavan, a deputy conservator, mentioned they’re in touch with other states for the release. The first phase is already underway in Maharashtra. They don’t plan to start another round of rescues just yet, but they might in the future if needed.